San Francisco Constructive Eviction Lawyer

As a tenant in San Francisco, you have many rights, including the right to a safe and livable home. Unfortunately, many landlords fail to uphold their responsibilities, refusing to make necessary repairs or address problems with the unit, which can make your home uninhabitable. 

For example, if a landlord refuses to address an unsafe situation in your rental unit, like a lack of heat, you may be left with no choice but to vacate your home. When a tenant is forced to leave due to uninhabitable conditions, it is called constructive eviction.

If you have been forced to leave your rental property due to unlivable conditions, you may have options to hold your landlord accountable. Discuss your situation with a San Francisco constructive eviction lawyer at Wolford Wayne immediately. Our attorneys can go over the specifics of your situation and help you determine if a lawsuit against your landlord is possible.

What is a Constructive Eviction?

No tenant should be forced to deal with a living space that is so unsafe or uncomfortable that it threatens their health and well-being. Landlords are required to maintain their property to a certain standard. If they fail to do so and a tenant is forced to leave their home due to poor living conditions (also called uninhabitability), the landlord can face serious legal consequences. Uninhabitability can be caused by many situations or conditions.

Here are just a few examples:

• Your landlord refuses to repair plumbing, electrical, or heating problems promptly.
• Your landlord does not take steps to remove toxic mold or pest infestations.
• Your landlord will not fix broken windows, locks, or doors that create a safety and security risk.
• Your landlord does not address nuisances created by other tenants, construction, or the landlord themselves.

What to Do as a Tenant

Once you’ve left the unit, it can become more difficult to determine if a constructive eviction has occurred and what damages you may be able to recover. If you’re currently dealing with issues in or around your rental unit that threaten your health, safety, or well-being, make sure to document the problem in writing.

For a landlord to be responsible for the problems a tenant must be able to prove that their landlord knew or should have known about the poor conditions. The best way to prove this is by writing a letter or email to your landlord when it comes up. While many tenants are in the habit of complaining verbally, it is extremely important to put things in writing and keep records. Too often, landlords will deny being told about a given issue, making it a “he said, she said” situation which can be difficult to prove.

Further, landlords must be given a reasonable opportunity to fix a problem. For example, if you have a water leak, even if it is severe and you move out right away, you may not have a case because you didn’t give your landlord a chance to fix it. To determine the best course of action for dealing with serious issues in your home, contact us to schedule a free consultation.

If you’ve already left your rental home due to unlivable conditions, your first action should be to contact an experienced tenant’s rights attorney. We can discuss the details of your situation and advise you on the best course of action. 

Being forced out of your home due to poor living conditions can leave you feeling hopeless and uncertain. At Wolford Wayne, we are passionate about fighting for the underdog. When you work with our team, you will receive compassionate and friendly guidance through a stressful situation. We will be your trusted partner in protecting your right to a safe and comfortable home and seeking justice when that right is violated.

Get In Touch with a San Francisco Constructive Eviction Attorney Today

If you believe you’ve been the victim of constructive eviction, or you’re considering moving due to poor living conditions, speak with a San Francisco constructive eviction lawyer immediately. An attorney from Wolford Wayne can help you take legal action to defend your rights. Contact us here to set up an obligation-free consultation.